Marisa Contipelli Joins The Crown Network as Co-Host of First Word

CINCINNATI, OH — The Crown is proud to welcome Marisa Contipelli as a co-host of First Word with James Rapien, the network's flagship morning sports show airing weekdays from 7–11 a.m. ET live on YouTube, X and over the air on RESN. In addition to hosting, Contipelli will also contribute feature storytelling and producing across the network, showcasing how her abilities extend beyond just in front of the camera. Contipelli’s talent both in front of and behind the camera will bring credibility and energy to everything The Crown produces.

If you've followed Cincinnati sports over the past decade, you already know Marisa. She spent eight seasons as a Team Reporter and Senior Producer for the Cincinnati Bengals, building a reputation as one of the most trusted voices in the building, and someone who could deliver in-depth coverage and player-driven stories with the kind of access and authenticity that fans appreciate.

“I am so excited to join The Crown! Sports storytelling has always been at the center of my career, and this opportunity allows me to continue doing what I love both in front of and behind the camera. I am thrilled to be part of a media network that’s committed to bringing sports fans something fresh, unique, and different, and I can't wait for this city to see how we are going to change the morning sports landscape in Cincinnati!"

— Marisa Contipelli, Co-Host, First Word | The Crown Network

Before joining the Bengals, Contipelli found her way at Spectrum Sports in Columbus, covering professional, collegiate, and high school teams across the state of Ohio. She's also a familiar face inside Cincinnati's sports venues as an in-game host for the Cincinnati Reds and Ohio State Football.

A Cleveland native and proud Ohio State graduate, Contipelli brings a point of view that's been shaped by Ohio sports from the ground up. Her range across markets, formats, and fandoms makes her a natural fit for everything First Word is built to be: smart, passionate, and deeply connected to the people who live and breathe sports every day.

“Marisa’s one of the most versatile media personalities in this market. There aren’t many people who can host in front of the camera, work behind the camera, edit, and produce at such a high level. Her expertise has already made its mark on The Crown.”

— D.J. Hodge, President | 1831 Media LLC / The Crown Network

First Word with James Rapien debuts June 1, 2026, as part of The Crown’s full launch across YouTube, RESN, and social platforms. Contipelli's addition to the lineup signals the kind of talent and ambition the network is bringing to Cincinnati's media landscape.